What Are the Most Common Causes of Wrongful Death?

Losing a loved one is never easy, but it’s even more devastating when their death was caused by someone else’s negligence or intentional actions. In such cases, it’s important to understand what wrongful death is and what the most common types of wrongful death cases are.

If you are considering filing a wrongful death lawsuit, it’s important to get the facts of your case right to increase your chances of success. This article will educate you on wrongful death cases and the legal options you can explore.

Medical malpractice

Medical malpractice is the third leading cause of wrongful death in the United States. It occurs when a healthcare provider fails to provide appropriate treatment or care, resulting in the patient’s death.

Examples of medical malpractice include misdiagnosis, surgical errors and medication errors. Medical malpractice cases can be complex, and it may be necessary to consult with medical experts to prove that the healthcare provider was negligent.

Car accidents

Car accidents are another leading cause of wrongful death cases. When a driver is negligent or reckless, they can cause a fatal accident. Recklessness may include drunk driving, distracted driving or speeding. 

In such cases, the surviving family members may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit against the at-fault driver. Please note that in some cases, the vehicle manufacturer or a government agency responsible for maintaining the roadway may be liable for a fatal car accident.

Workplace accidents

Workplace accidents can also result in wrongful death. When an employer fails to provide a safe work environment or proper safety equipment, they may be liable for the death of an employee. Examples of workplace accidents include falls, electrocutions and machinery accidents.

Losing a loved one is always difficult, but it’s even more devastating when their death could have been prevented. You may be entitled to compensation if you have lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence or intentional actions. Remember, while nothing can ever bring back your loved one, holding the responsible parties accountable can provide some measure of closure and help prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future.